Regulating Disinformation in Ethiopia: A Human Rights-Based Approach
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Date
2023-01
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Addis Ababa University
Abstract
Disinformation, or the spread of false or misleading information, can be a significant challenge
to society as it can undermine trust in institutions and damage public discourse. Ethiopia is no
exception to this and the spread of misleading information through the media as well as new
forms of communications such as social media has brought about new challenges. While it may
be tempting to address this challenge through criminal or restrictive measures, such approaches
can have negative consequences for human rights, especially freedom of expression. Restrictive
measures such as over criminalization of speech, prior restraints and blocking internet access,
for example, can raise significant human right concerns. In Ethiopia, laws intended on
regulating disinformation already exist in various spheres, but it is important to consider the
potential negative impact on human rights when implementing these measures. The study's
findings shed light on the patterns and trends in the regulation of disinformation in Ethiopia, and
it presents evidence-based recommendations for tackling the problem in a manner that respects
the country's human rights commitments. Specifically, the research puts forward an approach to
combating disinformation that is grounded in human rights and prioritizes enhancing digital and
media literacy, expanding access to trustworthy information, and encouraging self-regulation
within the media and on social media platforms.
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Keywords
Disinformation, Misinformation, Freedom of Expression, Freedom of Information, Human Right Based Approach